The Shocking Backstage Confession DreTL Made About Eminem After Winning Rhythm + Flow

Winning a major competition can change a young artist’s life forever. For DreTL, the champion of Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow Season 2, the victory marked a milestone in his budding rap career. But in his own words, nothing could compare to meeting his idol, Eminem, during the Detroit episode of the show.

The Atlanta rapper revealed that the experience of shaking hands with Slim Shady outweighed even the thrill of being crowned the winner. To DreTL, this was not just a meeting — it was an out-of-body experience that validated two decades of admiration and inspiration.

In this article, we’ll explore DreTL’s journey, why his encounter with Eminem hit harder than winning Rhythm + Flow, and what it means for his future in hip-hop.

DreTL’s Rhythm + Flow Journey

When Netflix brought back its popular music competition Rhythm + Flow for a second season, audiences were eager to see which rising artist would shine. DreTL, an Atlanta-based rapper with raw talent and relentless energy, steadily worked his way through the competition, impressing judges and fans alike.

Each performance showcased his storytelling ability, lyrical sharpness, and stage presence. By the time the finale arrived, DreTL had cemented himself as the frontrunner, ultimately securing the Season 2 championship.

But despite the life-changing nature of the victory — with its career opportunities, exposure, and financial rewards — DreTL openly admits that the moment he met Eminem overshadowed everything else.

The Detroit Episode: Where It All Happened

The Detroit stop of Rhythm + Flow Season 2 was special for many reasons. Detroit is a city rich in hip-hop history, and it also happens to be the hometown of one of rap’s greatest icons: Eminem.

When DreTL discovered that he would meet Slim Shady in person, he could hardly believe it. Speaking later on the Hip-Hop Wired podcast, he described the surreal moment:

“Honest to God truth, I had more of a reaction meeting Eminem than when they said I won. When I met him, bro, I’m embarrassed to even watch it ‘cause I’m screaming, I’m throwing my phone… I didn’t do it in front of him ‘cause I can hold my composure. But when he left, it was like unleashing 20 years of looking at that person like they were not real.”

This wasn’t just a handshake or a casual hello. For DreTL, it was the culmination of two decades of idolizing one of hip-hop’s most influential artists.

Why Eminem Matters So Much to DreTL

In his own words, DreTL considers Eminem untouchable — in the same breath as Jay-Z, Tupac, Biggie, and Nas. These are the names that consistently appear in debates about the greatest rappers of all time, and DreTL is unashamed to put Eminem in that elite category.

“Meeting him and then him showing me love, also him being my favourite rapper – you can’t really duplicate that. That first time, it’s like meeting Michael Jordan or Tom Brady ‘cause that’s how good he is in his field.”

This comparison highlights how Eminem’s legacy transcends music. Just as Jordan redefined basketball and Brady redefined football, Eminem redefined the art of lyricism, flow, and global reach in hip-hop.

For a young rapper who grew up studying every bar, punchline, and verse of Slim Shady, the opportunity to receive direct recognition from his hero is an affirmation that no trophy can replace.

The Internet Narrative vs. Reality

In the age of social media, there’s a recurring online narrative that “nobody listens to Eminem anymore.” Critics and casual fans alike sometimes argue that Eminem’s dominance belonged to an earlier era and that his music no longer carries the same cultural weight.

But DreTL’s reaction tells a different story. Here is a young artist, just 20 years old, who cites Eminem as one of his greatest influences. His meeting with the rap legend triggered an emotional response stronger than winning a televised competition.

This is the reality: Eminem’s influence runs deep, and it continues to shape the next generation of hip-hop artists. DreTL is living proof that Slim Shady’s legacy is not only intact but thriving in the aspirations of today’s rising stars.

DreTL’s Out-of-Body Experience

The way DreTL describes the moment captures just how impactful it was. He admitted that he managed to keep his composure while Eminem was present, but once the encounter was over, he couldn’t hold it in any longer.

Screaming, throwing his phone, and reliving the memory with uncontainable joy, DreTL showed fans a raw glimpse of what it feels like to meet someone who shaped your artistic identity.

The rapper even confessed that he feels slightly embarrassed watching the footage back — but it’s a natural reaction. After all, how often do you get to stand face-to-face with your hero?

Eminem’s Endorsement: What It Means

For a young rapper like DreTL, meeting Eminem is one thing — but receiving respect and recognition from him is another level entirely. Eminem didn’t just appear on Rhythm + Flow as a guest; he showed appreciation for DreTL’s craft.

That acknowledgment validates years of hard work and signals to the industry that DreTL is more than just a competition winner — he’s a serious artist with the potential to make waves in the global hip-hop scene.

Comparing Victory and Legacy Moments

It’s important to note the distinction between winning a show and earning the respect of a legend. Winning Rhythm + Flow Season 2 gives DreTL exposure, resources, and credibility within the music industry. It’s a launching pad.

But meeting Eminem connects him directly to the roots and legacy of hip-hop. It ties his personal story to the larger narrative of rap history, bridging the gap between old-school greatness and new-school ambition.

For DreTL, one is about opportunity; the other is about identity. And that’s why meeting Eminem felt bigger.

The Power of Role Models in Hip-Hop

DreTL’s story highlights the importance of role models in hip-hop. Eminem’s career proved that skill, perseverance, and authenticity could overcome even the toughest barriers.

For young artists like DreTL, seeing someone like Eminem succeed provides a blueprint:

Lyricism matters. Eminem’s technical ability remains unmatched.

Authenticity matters. Slim Shady built his career on telling his story without compromise.

Longevity matters. Two decades into his career, Eminem is still regarded as one of the greatest.

Meeting a role model in real life solidifies these lessons and inspires artists to push even harder.

What’s Next for DreTL?

After winning Rhythm + Flow and experiencing his dream encounter with Eminem, DreTL stands at the beginning of a promising career.

The next steps are crucial:

Releasing new music that showcases his unique style.

Building on his fanbase gained from the Netflix platform.

Carving his identity beyond the competition show, ensuring that he isn’t just remembered as a winner but as an artist with staying power.

And with Eminem’s respect fueling his drive, DreTL is poised to make significant moves in the coming years.

Eminem’s Lasting Impact on Hip-Hop

The story also shines a spotlight on Eminem’s broader impact. Despite what critics say, he continues to inspire young rappers who see him not just as a successful artist, but as a symbol of excellence.

DreTL’s testimony proves that Eminem’s influence crosses generational boundaries. For every voice that claims “nobody listens to Eminem anymore,” there’s a DreTL who proves otherwise.

Why This Moment Matters

For DreTL, meeting Eminem was bigger than winning Rhythm + Flow. And when you think about it, it makes perfect sense.

Winning a competition is a milestone. Meeting your hero — the very artist who inspired your craft, validated your journey, and reminded you why you started — is something deeper. It’s a defining moment that shapes who you are as an artist.

DreTL’s reaction might have been over-the-top, but it was genuine. It was the culmination of 20 years of admiration and the beginning of a new chapter in his career.

And for fans, it serves as a reminder: Eminem’s legacy is alive, well, and inspiring the next wave of hip-hop talent.